Course Description
This course provides an overview of early childhood care and education including historical perspectives, organization, programming structure and basic values in early childhood education. Professional practices of early childhood educators are outlined with an emphasis on supporting skill development of children from birth to age eight during each age and stage of development. Students will spend a minimum of 15 hours of observation in early childhood settings. This course is part of the Illinois Gateways to Opportunity Early Childhood and Infant/Toddler Credentials.
Prerequisite(s)
ECED 1513 or concurrent enrollment - Must be taken either prior to or at the same time as this course.
At the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Observe, record, and assess child growth and development.
- Integrate health, safety, and nutrition practices according to local, state, and national standards.
- Provide a respectful, diverse, and inclusive program.
- Use interpersonal skills to develop respectful relationships with children and adults.
- Demonstrate professional and ethical standards.
- Advocate for children, families, and the profession.
Topical Outline
1. Intro to early childhood education
2. History of early childhood education
3. Issues and services in early childhood education
4. Understanding development
5. Understanding child diversity
6. Understanding family diversity
7. Understanding professional pathways
8. Education philosophies and curricular approaches
9. Assessment
10. Supporting social-emotional development through guidance
11. The learning environment
12. Effective teaching practices
2. History of early childhood education
3. Issues and services in early childhood education
4. Understanding development
5. Understanding child diversity
6. Understanding family diversity
7. Understanding professional pathways
8. Education philosophies and curricular approaches
9. Assessment
10. Supporting social-emotional development through guidance
11. The learning environment
12. Effective teaching practices